Video game’s delay smoothed over with ‘Ys’

Atlus is pushing back the release date of its Nintendo DS RPG compilation Legacy of Ys: Books I & II two weeks, to Feb. 24 — but the company is rewarding fans for their involuntary patience by upgrading all launch copies to a “premium” boxed set. Now, the soundtrack CD formerly intended as a pre-order bonus will be packed in with all copies of the game’s first print run.

This unexpected upgrade signals the return of Atlus Spoils, a fan appreciation campaign intended to give a little extra something to the company’s faithful followers as a thank you for their continued support. The program is planned to remain active indefinitely during 2009, meaning fans can expect additional bonuses and extras in future Atlus releases throughout the year.

“While we’re never eager to announce delays for our products,” began Tim Pivnicny, vice president of sales and marketing for Atlus, “we are incredibly excited to be able to upgrade the final release of Legacy of Ys to a premium boxed package. The soundtrack CD, once a bonus for pre-orders, is now going to be offered to everyone who picks up a copy from the game’s limited first print run.”

One of the most heralded action RPG franchises of all time, Legacy of Ys: Books I & II delivers the first two epic adventures of the famed saga on one cartridge, presented with a series of never-before-seen enhancements.

Epic in melody and arrangement, the Ys Books I & II soundtrack has long been considered one of the greatest video same scores ever created. Originally released in an era when many games used music simply to avoid stretches of silence, Ys offered a sweeping emotional score, building on action and tension to provide players with an altogether potent experience. As relevant today as ever, the freshly arranged music CD still manages the same level of excitement and energy, and stand as a testament to true excellence in game music.

The game is scheduled for release for Nintendo DS on Feb. 24 with an MSRP of $34.99.

About Legacy of Ys: Books I & II:
Stories tell of a land of yore, now shrouded by centuries of time forgotten, called Ys. Despite its great knowledge, endless wealth, and bountiful prosperity, a sudden and unexpected cataclysm devastated the realm. Soon, its memory had faded completely from the minds of man.

Centuries later, a young adventurer named Adol set sail to explore the world and leave his mark on history. During his travels, he learned of the tragic tale of Esteria, a once prosperous island now inexplicably engulfed by a crippling storm. Adol plotted a course for the besieged isle, curious to unravel the mystery…

Key featuresof the game:

Two Legendary RPGs on One Cartridge! – Experience two all time classics that helped shape the action RPG genre… Now on a portable system!

Upgraded Ys Experience – Behold remastered 3D graphics, a remixed musical score, and new enemies and equipment to discover. Touch control and local wireless multiplayer for up to four people deepen the adventure, while difficulty levels and dual control schemes tailor the experience to the gamer.

The Definitive Story – Available to North American audiences for the first time, this ultimate translation delivers the most substantial version of the famous Ys story ever made!